Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales attend the State Banquet at Windsor Castle. (Photo: Getty Images)

Was Kate Middleton's Elie Saab gown a nod to Oman's endangered Arabian leopards?

Kate Middleton attended the Oman state banquet in a yellow Elie Saab gown. Does the outfit pay tribute to Oman?

by · India Today

In Short

  • King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted Sultan Haitham bin Tariq
  • Prince William joined the Princess of Wales at Windsor Castle
  • Queen Mary's Lover's Knot tiara recalled Princess Diana's royal style

Kate Middleton brought a touch of sunshine to Windsor Castle on Tuesday evening, October 20, as she attended a state banquet hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla in honour of Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. The Princess of Wales, who joined her husband, Prince William, for the occasion, chose a flowing yellow gown by Lebanese designer Elie Saab, pairing it with a royal heirloom that has a special connection to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana.

The evening’s standout accessory was Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot tiara, a diamond-and-pearl headpiece that became one of Diana’s best-known royal jewels and has since become a regular choice for Kate at formal royal engagements.

Kate, Princess of Wales ahead of the state banquet for Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oma at Windsor Castle. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kate Middleton’s yellow Elie Saab gown

For the state banquet, Kate opted for a soft, butter-yellow gown by Elie Saab, featuring a braided neckline, a keyhole detail at the front and a flowing skirt. A sheer cape added a dramatic finish to the ensemble, lending movement to the floor-length silhouette.

Kate Middleton joined her husband, Prince William, for the occasion and chose a flowing yellow gown by Lebanese designer Elie Saab. (Photo: Getty Images)

One detail that stood out from the evening was her gown. The outfit featured a subtle animal print pattern, but was it a nod to Oman’s critically endangered Arabian leopard? For that, we don’t have any confirmation yet.

Did you spot the subtle animal prints? (Photo: Getty Images)

Kate completed the look with diamond chandelier earrings, Queen Mary’s diamond choker bracelet and a gold embellished clutch. She also wore the Royal Victorian Order sash and star, along with King Charles III’s Royal Family Order.

The choice of yellow came after a day of diplomatic engagements in which the Princess of Wales had worn a dark green Alexander McQueen coat for the formal welcome of the Omani sultan.

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